Taoiseach ‘working towards reconciliation and mutual trust’ in Belfast visit

By Rebecca Black, Press Association

Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, has vowed to continue working towards reconciliation and mutual trust ahead of a visit to Belfast.

Martin is set to meet with political leaders at Stormont, as well as with business leaders, and engage with Women’s Aid.

He will also mark the signing of a €700 million contract for a new fleet of cross-border trains.

Later, he will deliver the Lord David Trimble Lecture 2026 at Queen’s University Belfast.

Speaking ahead of his visit, the Taoiseach said he is pleased to be returning to Belfast.

“My visit includes multiple opportunities to hear directly from political, business, and civic leaders and to discuss ongoing and evolving all-island priorities which benefit us all,” he said.

“I am also pleased to be delivering the Lord David Trimble Lecture at Queen’s University. David played a critical role in the achievement of the Good Friday Agreement.

“The principles and purpose of the Agreement remain central to what my Government does and how we foster relationships across these islands.”

He added: “I am committed to continuing to work toward reconciliation and mutual trust, as we collectively set out to do in 1998, including through the Shared Island Initiative.”